- Request
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In respect of Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS) in Lincolnshire - Please provide
a) a list of existing and proposed sites known about by Lincs Fire and Rescue Service (FRS)
b) How do Lincs FRS train for fires at BESS sites?
c) What guidance/policies are used by Lincs FRS when responding to requests for planning consultations on BESS sites?
d) Are Lincs FRS aware of proposals for a large BESS on land at Foxdale NG32 3 (SKDC Planning reference S25/0859 refers)
e) Taking into account the nature and topography of the proposed site, what would be the effects of gases and noxious substances from the site being carried by the prevailing wind?
f) Would Lincs FRS specify minimum water supplies for firefighting?
g )What would be the position of Lincs FRS if only a single means of ingress and egress were provided for the Foxdale site? - Decision
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I can confirm that the information requested is held by Lincolnshire County Council. I have detailed below the information that is being released to you.
a) All live applications are available via local authority planning portals
b) LFR continue to review the latest guidance issued by the National Fire Chiefs Council - LFR training and guidance is in-line with National Operational guidance - We have guidance on how to deal with lithium-ion battery fires and solar farms/panels - All BESS developments are noted by LFR's Integrated Risk Team, where specific details of the developments are captured. This information allows response plans to then be developed to support the effective management of any incidents.
c) LFR use the current guidance issued by the National Fire Chiefs Council - We also reference NPA855 which is the recognised industry standard
d) No
e) As part of the management of an incident involving BESS our Incident Commanders consider impact of smoke and gases. We would work with responding colleagues to understand the impact of the gases emitted from the fire and consider action and advice as required.
f) Yes - This is taken from the current NFCC guidance - Fire Hydrants provided should achieve a flow rate of no less than 25 litres / second at any hydrant on the site.
This figure is based on guidance produced by Water UK and the Local Government Association. The flow rate for transportation has been selected as the comparative value for flow rates, rather than that of a domestic housing development or an industrial setting. Where a flow of 25 litres / second cannot be achieved, it would be prudent to provide an equivalent static supply of water on site that will provide for the same flow rate for a duration of 120 minutes. This equates to approximately 180,000 litres of water.
g) This is not in-line with current guidance -
16.1 Site Access Suitable facilities for safely accessing and egressing the site should be provided.
Designs should be developed in close liaison with the local FRS as specific requirements may apply due to variations in vehicles and equipment. In achieving adequate access for the FRS, firefighters should not have to enter the BESS site and drive through a vapour / gas cloud to reach the scene of operation.
It is therefore preferable to have an alternative access point taking account of the likely wind direction.
Whilst BESS progress for approval is via the planning route, there is an absence of guidance regarding adequate access for the FRS.
However, the principles contained within Approved Document B in support of B5 may assist in providing a proportionate and adequate provision of access and facilities for the FRS.
- Reference number
- FOI 12535503
- Date request received
- 27/05/25
- Date of decision
- 24/06/25